One day, the team at DeKalb County Animal Services in Georgia was met with a disheartening scene right outside their facility. A Pit Bull puppy had been left in a discarded cardboard plum box. The tiny puppy was underfed and visibly shaken, clinging to the box for comfort even after being moved indoors by the shelter’s staff. Despite efforts to coax him out, the puppy, whom they aptly named Plum, remained within his makeshift refuge. Plum’s fear and sadness were palpable, a direct result of being mercilessly left by his family.
“We just wanted to hug him, make him feel better, and let him know he was safe. We set up a nice crate with a fluffy bed and some treats and left the door open, hoping he would go in on his own,” Karen from LifeLine Animal Project told The Dodo.
It took weeks, but Plum gradually warmed up to some of the shelter’s staff and began to venture out. As Plum started to leave his box behind, the shelter witnessed the emergence of his true, delightful character. “When Plum arrived, he was unable to leave the safety of his box. He has made so much progress and we love seeing his personality blossom,” LifeLine Animal Project wrote in a Facebook post. Plum’s affectionate and snuggly nature made him a fast favorite among the shelter workers.
With time, Plum’s playful and quirky side also began to shine through, much to everyone’s enjoyment. After persistent efforts to help him overcome his initial fears, it became clear that Plum was ready for a new beginning. Plum soon found his forever home with Melonie, an Atlanta resident, who felt an instant connection and knew she was meant to adopt him. Initially a lean puppy, Plum gained nearly 20 pounds and now boasts a healthier physique.
He now has a few animal companions in his new home, proving to be a wonderful addition to the family. Melonie describes Plum as incredibly sweet yet amusingly goofy. Despite a challenging start, this tenacious pup is now living his best life and we couldn’t be more thrilled!
Toledo, United States.
